Thyroid isthmus

Thyroid isthmus - Definition

It refers to the mid-section of the thyroid gland. It is referred to as Isthmus Glandulae Thyroidea in the Latin language.

Thyroid isthmus - Anatomy

This section is about 1.25 cm deep and approximately as broad, although there can be variations in its dimensions and locations. The thyroid isthmus is covered by the fascia and the skin over the middle line of the neck. The Sternothyreoideus covers it near the middle line and on either side of the neck. Across the upper border of the isthmus runs an anastomotic branch which also connects the two superior thyroid arteries. At the lower border of the structure, the inferior thyroid veins can be found.

Thyroid isthmus - Location

It is situated in front of the trachea.

Thyroid isthmus - Functions

This endocrine structure has two important roles:

It connects one of the lower thirds of the lateral lobes with the other.